Cancer Bush

Cancer Bush (Sutherlandia frutescens) is a legume from southern Africa with a long history of medicinal use. It is a fast growing but short lived shrublet that does well in full sun and has a high tolerance for all kinds of soil types. Draught tolerant, it is native to a warm arid climate thus it is not entirely frost tolerant so should be taken indoors if temperatures fall below freezing.

Special Precautions of Cancer Bush

• Sutherlandia frutescens treatment may interfere with pharmaceutical anti-retroviral drugs.
• Pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid taking Sutherlandia frutescens as there is little scientific study of the in utero effects or effects on children, though traditionally it has been used by pregnant women in Africa with no known negative effects.
• Sutherlandia frutescens has been reported to cause dry mouth, mild diarrhea, slight dizziness and constipation.

Thus far there is no known lethal dose.

The benefits of Cancer Bush are

• Historically this plant has been used as a salve for wounds as well as a fever reducer. It has been known to treat chicken pox, stomach problems, as well as certain ailments of the eyes. There are many other purported ailments which Sutherlandia frutescens is reported to address. It has been used to treat colds, flu, asthma, tuberculosis, bronchitis, rheumatism, arthritis, liver problems, hemorrhoids, piles, bladder problems, uterine problems, Chronic Fatigues Syndrome, ME Syndrome, dysentery, stomach ailments, viral hepatitis, heartburn, type 2 diabetes, peptic ulcers, backache, diabetes, varicose veins and inflammation, mental and emotional stress, irritability, anxiety, hypertension and depression.
• This plant has recently increased in importance because of its reputation as a cure for cancer as well as an immune system booster. Although there is no hard evidence that this plant can cure all cancers, there is clinical evidence that it does have direct cancer fighting properties and does improve immune system function.
• It is currently being used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS because of its immune system benefits, and is known to be an appetite stimulant which is important for the support of both cancer and HIV/AIDS.